Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe
Introduction
This simple sugar cookie icing is perfect for decorating your favorite cookies with a smooth, glossy finish. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a sweet and colorful icing that sets beautifully.

Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- Food coloring
Instructions
- Step 1: Sift the powdered sugar into a bowl to remove any lumps, then stir in the corn syrup and your choice of vanilla or almond extract until combined.
- Step 2: Gradually add the milk, one teaspoon at a time, stirring well until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Step 3: Add food coloring a few drops at a time, mixing thoroughly until you achieve the desired color.
Tips & Variations
- If the icing is too thick, add a few more drops of milk to thin it out; if too thin, add a little extra powdered sugar.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle nutty flavor.
- For a shinier finish, brush a thin layer of corn syrup over the dried icing.
Storage
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If it thickens, stir in a few drops of milk before using. Avoid refrigerating, as the icing may harden and become difficult to spread.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this icing for other baked goods besides sugar cookies?
Yes, this icing works well for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and brownies, providing a sweet and glossy finish.
How long does the icing take to set?
It generally takes about 1 to 2 hours to dry and set at room temperature, depending on the thickness of the application.
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Sugar Cookie Icing Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough to ice about 12 medium sugar cookies
Description
This classic Sugar Cookie Icing recipe creates a smooth, glossy, and easy-to-spread icing perfect for decorating sugar cookies. Made with simple ingredients like powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla or almond extract, this icing can be tinted with food coloring for vibrant holiday or celebration cookies.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- Food coloring, as desired
Instructions
- Sift and Mix: Sift the powdered sugar to remove lumps, then combine it with the light corn syrup and vanilla or almond extract in a mixing bowl.
- Add Milk Gradually: Add the milk one teaspoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, until the icing reaches your desired consistency for spreading or piping.
- Color the Icing: Add food coloring a little at a time, stirring well, until you achieve the desired color intensity for your decorated cookies.
Notes
- Use a fine sieve to sift powdered sugar for a smooth icing texture.
- Adjust milk quantity slightly to thin or thicken the icing depending on your decorating needs.
- Light corn syrup helps achieve a shiny finish and prevents the icing from crystallizing.
- For a different flavor profile, substitute almond extract for vanilla extract.
- This icing sets well overnight at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sugar cookie icing, icing recipe, sugar cookie decoration, powdered sugar icing, cookie frosting, easy icing recipe

